National Geographic’s Driving Guides to America
published by the National Geographic Society
>> As springtime finally hits St. Louis and the open road beckons, this series of books covers a wealth of both highways and back roads for your road tripping pleasure. Series books include guides to New England, the Rockies, the Heartland, Great Lakes, and the Southwest. And since, hey, it’s National Geographic, you know they won’t skimp on the fun facts, information on local attractions, and awesome pictures.
– $11.96 each on Amazon.com paperback
The Weight of Water by Anita Shreve
>> Who can resist the story of a newspaper reporter who investigates axe murders? Shreve’s protagonist, Jean, delves into the account of a 1873 murder as a tie-in to a brutal modern double murder. The plot’s complexity comes from the rich interweaving of an eyewitness narrative and Jean’s inner doubts and fears concerning her jealousies and failing marriage. Sounds like a good choice for the introspective and the blood-thirsty.
– $6.99 on Amazon.com paperback – 279 pages.
Sakharov: A Biography by Richard Lourie
>> If you’re looking for an intriguing biography to escape from the life of a student, look no further than this new work that explores the life of Andrei D. Sakharov, the Soviet physicist who was forced under Stalin to help develop a hydrogen bomb. Lourie explores the conflict between Sakharov’s love of country and his ethical objections to a weapon of mass destruction. As relevant now as it was then, sure to be a compelling read.
-$21 on Amazon.com hardcover – 487 pages.
Revenge: A Story of Hope by Laura Blumenfeld
>> At this time of the semester, revenge against professors is an idea that passes through many students’ minds; Laura Blumenfeld’s idea is a different one. Seeking answers from when her father was shot during her childhood, Laura returns to the scene of the crime-Old Jerusalem-and while seeking out the motivations of the crime, also collects stories she hears along the way. Her story prompts questions of what beliefs and mores are important enough to inspire revenge, as well as how other cultures interpret this all-too-human quality.
– $17.50 on Amazon.com hardcover – 382 pages.